Your Supports for the Whiplash Treatment Now For You

Because there are so many uncertainties and misunderstanding about whiplash injury and even the opinions of doctors and specialists differ widely, there is no clear method for whiplash. Thanks to various studies, there is more and more insight into the various complaints that often occur with a whiplash, which results in better guidance and treatment of the victim. Depending on the symptoms and their severity, different treatments can be applied to promote improvement and healing.

Visit to the doctor immediately after the accident

Although the treatment methods differ, there is one thing that applies to every whiplash patient and that is that within 24 hours after the accident contact should be made with a general practitioner if complaints occur. In order to exclude serious injuries, it is also advisable to have an x-ray of the neck made in the hospital (first aid department). A whiplash injury will not be visible on the X-ray, however this is not legal and legal proof that the injury is not present! The X-ray is also added to the medical file and is particularly important for claiming a claim if the whiplash is caused by third parties. The whiplash treatment physiotherapy may also start immediately.

In some cases wearing a neck brace is advised the first 48 hours after the whiplash. However, opinions are also divided on this, because a neck collar keeps the neck stiff, causing the muscles to relax with severe pain as the neck brace is removed. Instead of wearing a neck collar, it is better to give the neck a full rest for the first 48 hours. If the pain is unbearable, a painkiller can possibly be swallowed. This is especially recommended if the pain disturbed a good night’s sleep. Resting and exercising as little as possible is crucial for the first two days after an accident to promote the healing process.

Referral to a neurologist after a whiplash injury

The GP will refer a whiplash patient to a neurologist if there are neurological complaints such as chronic fatigue, hormonal disorders, irritability and tightening of the nerves that can lead to pain and reduced muscle strength in the arm. Many of these complaints belong to the so-called vague complaints associated with whiplash, which cannot be visualized by medical equipment.

Reference to a manual therapist

The referral to a manual therapist does not occur until two to six weeks after the accident. This time is needed to optimally restore the neck muscles, the ligaments and vertebrae by means of an adjusted work schedule, in which sufficient rest is taken and the body is given all the space to fully recover. The work of a manual therapist consists of the detection and removal of blockages, which restricts the patient in his freedom of movement.